Bridging Architecture and Engineering Through Sustainable Materials
23 June 2025
"The strong interdisciplinary environment at Imperial has given me the tools to connect materials science with architectural design—something I’ve long believed is essential to innovation in sustainable construction."
Jing Che came to Imperial with a vision: to integrate her background in architectural design with advanced materials research. Having completed both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in architectural design in China, she worked in a firm specialising in earthen architecture, where she also managed projects and experimental testing.
“It became clear to me that innovation in sustainable construction demands people who can bridge architecture and materials science,” she explains. “At the firm, we often hit bottlenecks because our team lacked this interdisciplinary expertise. I saw the opportunity to step into that space.”
A platform for interdisciplinary growth
Now studying on the MSc in Advanced Materials for Sustainable Infrastructure, Jing is making the most of the programme’s integrated curriculum and hands-on research opportunities. “The compact course schedule and balance between taught modules and research really stood out to me,” she says. “And being based in London opens doors for both academic and professional collaboration.”
Jing’s studies have taken her from state-of-the-art labs to field investigations in Oxford, where she conducted non-destructive testing on fibre-reinforced polymer bridges. She also visited concrete production plants and made full use of Imperial’s advanced experimental facilities. “The teaching is outstanding,” she adds. “Presentation sessions challenged me to learn new software quickly and approach each course like a mini research project. Feedback from instructors and Graduate Teaching Assistants has always been timely and constructive—even beyond office hours.”
Building skills and shaping the future
Despite coming from a design rather than engineering background, Jing quickly rose to the challenge. “I’ve learned to manage time efficiently, adapt quickly, and conduct systematic research,” she says. “One of my proudest achievements has been earning high marks in exams and assignments, often while taking on leadership roles in group projects.”
" The alumni network is a powerful resource, and we’re now working toward solutions for construction and demolition waste sites."
Collaboration has been a defining feature of her experience. Jing has worked with students and researchers from the University of Oxford, UCL, and beyond. Outside the lab, she joined Imperial’s gliding club and pursues hobbies like LEGO building and 3D printing in her spare time. “I like designing fun objects just for myself,” she says. “It’s a creative outlet.”
Jing’s future plans are already in motion. She has launched her own company, offering smart construction services that merge materials, design, sustainability, and build execution. “The Imperial name has helped us gain funding and partnerships already,” she says. “The alumni network is a powerful resource, and we’re now working toward solutions for construction and demolition waste sites.”
She has also immersed herself in the wider industry, attending events like London Build 2024 and the UK Concrete Show 2025. “There are so many opportunities to engage with the sector here,” she notes. “It’s helping me shape the future of my business.”
Championing diversity for International Women in Engineering Day
For Jing, International Women in Engineering Day is about connection and visibility. “Women are still a minority in engineering, and even when we work harder or take on more responsibilities, equality isn’t guaranteed,” she says. “Through this day, I hope to meet more ambitious women and inspire the next generation through my experiences.”
She draws inspiration from LIN Huiyin, a pioneering Chinese architect and preservationist. “She overcame institutional barriers and made historic contributions under extremely challenging conditions,” Jing says. “She’s a powerful example of perseverance and focus.”
Asked what advice she would offer to young women considering engineering, Jing is clear: “Passion can overcome all obstacles.” She believes diversity in engineering is essential for driving innovation. “Cross-disciplinary thinking, different cultural backgrounds, and gender diversity all fuel new ideas,” she says. “They open doors to both technological and business opportunities.”
Jing is proud to represent a diverse and inclusive engineering community. “I’ve worked across many disciplines—architecture, economics, big data, construction sites, heritage conservation. It’s this blend of experiences that gives me a broader perspective. I hope more women will feel empowered to do the same.”
Jing Che is an MSc student in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. You can find out more about Jing via her website/blog.
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